Not surprising, and I have seen something like it before. One factor is that intelligence and income are positively correlated, and hence the intelligent can buy not only more but better booze than the less intelligent. Hell, Cappy, that's why you drink that disgusting mint stuff - it is actually a better and more interesting drink than beer. Getting drunk on beer is just plain disgusting.

Back when I was doing a lot of work - mental work - typically at the end of work I would have three or four beers, then three or four Scotch. Then I'd head off for dinner (restaurant in those days) and begin with a martini or two, then a bottle of wine with dinner, then a couple of cognacs at the end. Happiness it was!